Az Business and AZRE magazines announced the publications’ lists of the Most Influential Women in Arizona for 2019 in the July issues of the magazines. Each day, azbigmedia.com is profiling one of the Most Influential Women of 2019.

The Most Influential Women for 2019 will be honored at a dinner and reception that begins at 5:30 p.m. on August 22, 2019 at the Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. For tickets or for sponsorship information, email Josh Schimmels or click here for more details.

To buy copies of the Most Influential Women in Arizona issue, click here.

Today’s spotlight: Monica Garnes

Title: President, Fry’s Food Stores

Garnes has held a variety of leadership positions within the Kroger organization during her 24-year career.  Monica served as corporate vice president of produce and floral merchandising prior to accepting her current role. Garnes is a native of Columbus, Ohio, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from The University of Rhode Island.

Source of pride:Being the president of Fry’s is an accomplishment that makes me most proud. It provides me the platform and opportunity to be a role model.  I have been able to inspire others to follow their professional career path and discover avenues which they might not have thought possible.”

The personality trait that helped you succeed:Empathy is a trait I exhibit every day. As a leader, I feel it is important to understand and meet others where they are on their journey. I take pride in coaching, teaching, and training my team members to reach their potential so they can meet business goals.”

The personality trait that got you into trouble:Being transparent is a trait that has led me to some difficult yet effective conversations. At the same time, people know when they ask me a question, I will speak truthfully to help them grow as a leader and to make us better as an organization.”

Best childhood memory:One of my best childhood memories is when my parents would load us up in the car, along with all kinds of sporting equipment and head to our local park. We had the best time, playing basketball, softball, tennis and enjoying a picnic lunch together as a family.”